Moving on
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- Опубліковано 5 жов 2024
- 2020 has been an absolute dumpster fire for just about everyone, myself included. Here is to new beginnings.
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Divorce, pandemic, car accidents and more- 2020 has been an absolute dumpster fire. That being said, I am thankful for the health of myself and my family, and for all of you. Onward and upward
Indeed. It's been tough for us all alone with covid, plus everyone's personal lives. I too always say ''onward & upward" I really feel 2020 (hopefully/should) be a reflection point for the world, hopefully our country. *** Fingers crossed***onward and upward Rachel, Love & Light around you!
You'll look back on this one day as just a really crappy time in your life..itll be ok
I sensed it a few months back. You introduced yourself in a video and casually said that you live there with your two daughters. My heart sank for you. And you've been different. Still lovely, but different. I was going through this when we met in Toronto. (I'm the one that managed the animal shelter for 10 years). You said some really sweet things to me. I sent those vibes right back. I hope you felt them.
You have all of our support
As a person who is going through everything you have, except for the accident, and having to give up the hobby due to a turn of events I get where you are at. I got the vibes from a previous video. Don't let yourself get bogged by what happened and have faith that things will turn around. That's what gets me going everyday. Hope and faith. Take care.
I would watch you even if you only had one little aquarium. I'm so sorry you're going through all this. Sending you love and good vibes.
Hope nothing but the best for you. You've been a huge inspiration and i always look forward to your videos. Thanks Rachel 🙏
Keep going Rachel, dont push yourself to keep 30 tanks, if you're happy with 5 tanks that is ok !!!!!
You are a remarkable aquarist. You have made many important contributions to the hobby. Your systems demonstrate the highest quality of husbandry and craftsmanship. Know that you are honored for your effort.
Personal struggles always bring detours and sharp turns in our life. Your drive and vision will bring new inspiration as new adventures open for you. All of us who cherish you look forward to the exciting new directions and amazing creativity that are yet to occur in your life.
Well said.
What he^^^ said. :)
Agree 100% with that stament !
I was trying to think of how to phrase a comment - Father Fish said everything I wanted to say far more eloquently than I could have done.
Very well said.
Do what is best for you and your kids Rachel. I learned a long time ago that if it doesn't make me happy or benefit my life throw it out whether it's fish, personal belongings, someone else can find Joy with it. I had to dramatically downsize as well. I was doing nothing but cleaning tanks all day and it became more of a chore rather than a joyful hobby. Now that I have dramatically downsized I enjoy my fish more, went with quality more than quantity. Wishing you and your kiddos health, happiness in the future. No matter what please keep us updated even if you get rid of all the fish, we have established a kindred relationship here on fish tube and always part of the fish family! Xoxo
I just want to say thanks for what you've done for the hobby as a whole. I'm a college student studying forest management, and the knowledge I've gained from keeping aquariums and watching your videos have benefitted me greatly and given me a leg up in my studies as well as a passion for our aquatic friends and their contributions to the local ecosystems. I think showing some of your local waterways and all of the life in them is a great idea. I wish you luck finding a new normal, and thanks for everything you've done.
I had a feeling that "something" Major had happened in your life. With that said, know that YOU personally have res-sparked the JOY of keeping fish and taking it to a new level with breeding fish outdoors. With that being said, you said enough. My philosophy is your life is your business. it took guts to admit what you just did. May this change bring about a different aspect to your fish keeping hobby and the information you so generously share. Taking your outdoor journies and translating them to a new style of aquarium build is something I would LOVE to see, I am on that pathway now... just need to squeeze in another aquarium...not easy.
You are an amazing person, and it will take time..I do expect that you will do more amazing things. Your strong enough I believe that you will pull through ... Much Respect, and so honored to be able to draw off your experiences.
Well said!
I could sense it, maybe because my husband and I are facing a similar struggle after 31 years. I agree, the things going on can steal your joy. I look forward to both of our new normals... I love your travel videos and learning fish keeping. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
I was selfishly relieved to hear you’re planning to keep the 75 gallon nano. That tank is so inspiring. I’m here for whatever you do going forward. I have learned SO MUCH from you Rachel! Take care and be well!
Much resprect for being so open about things! I can imagine it being a very hard thing to do. I hope that, in a way, making this vid was a bit therapeutic. Take the time to do what needs to be done. Any decent person doesn't get upset about a video like this. I shows that you are a human being and not plastic like the stuff TV is full of.
I had a hunch you and Chris had separated.
Take care of yourself and the girls first.
As I commented to Michael from Michael's Fish Room after his heart attack, step back if you need to; we'll be here waiting for you.
Stay healthy, do you! We'll always be here to support. Sending love and positive thoughts!
A saying I've tried to think of when everything goes topsy-turvy is, "When one door closes, another opens." Not sure if it helps, but there's an air of truth to it, I think. To new and interesting times.
Similar to that I like to say, "When a door opens, walk through it, you don't know what you will find on the other side."
You are a giver. But I think it’s time we give back to you. Take care of that heart. Take care of that spirit. Take care of that mind. When you are full again, then you can give us what you love and we will love it too. Thank you for doing all you do ❤️
Hi Rachel, I've watched all of your videos and will continue to. You inspired me to start up a nano tank of my own. Also have some beautiful Betas now too. Thank you for all the wonderful inspiration and yours and letting me see all the tubs and plants and kids and pets and fish and aquariums! I will support you no matter what so let us know when you start to set up your fish and I will be watching. Love and support from Frisco, Texas👍🤠💜💜
Rachel. I always find your videos interesting, educational and inspiring. Thank you. I can still see the joy of fish keeping in you. I’m sorry that you are going through such a tough time and I hope that a good new reality becomes more and more apparent to you. Don’t stop making videos.
Lots of Love Hugs and Aloha! we are a wonderful community and I am so thankful to have amazing spirits like you to add to the awesomeness of the community. Thank you so very much for trusting in us to share your life ups and downs and everything in-between. I hope to keep seeing our content as it continues to grow and change for many years to come. Thank you again we are here for you always just as you have been here for us!
Rachel, I bought 5 dwarf chain loaches from you back in 2012 when I first started in the hobby. They brought me so much joy. Their behavior was fascinating to watch and it was a wonderful 2 years. Thank you. I didn’t know much, but I loved your videos and even once I broke down my tank I would watch a video here and there. I am getting back into the hobby and wanted to see what you have been up to.
This video is very compelling and I am honored by your honesty and your willingness to share your difficult life stories. When a person or a big part of your life needs to change for any number of reasons, it is such a struggle to find a new path and way of thinking about life. Even when you are a strong person, as you are, It’s easy to doubt yourself, so thank you for sharing. Although the future feels scary there is hope and even joy to discover. Your thoughts about your future sound as if you have done some deep thinking and have come up with many great possibilities. Whatever changes you need to do to create more space in your life for yourself, do it. Remember to be kind to you. “Seek Beauty Every Day”
So happy you have clarity and are moving forward. I loved your last nature video of when you were at the stream, ties in so well with your holistic approach to fish keeping.
You were my first inspirational fish keeper many many years ago and am so happy to see you back.
Thanks for sharing your personal journey. Best for you and the fam))))
You have lots of support and people who you touched. Thank you for all you do.
Stay strong. Always think off your self first. We will always love you❤
Thank you for sharing. Keep your strength and your passion ❤️
Just wanted to say thank you for everything you have done for the hobby. You are an inspiration for so many including myself. You do what you have to do.
Bless you for all you have done. I am sorry for your fending situation. The next chapter will be exciting just give it time.
Thank you Rachel for sharing this with us. It takes a lot of strength and I really appreciate your transparency. Please make sure to take good care of yourself, and if you need a break from UA-cam to land back on your feet, that's totally understandable too. I'll be here rooting for you no matter what you decide to do with your fish room. xx
Rachel you are the best! You rekindled my love of aquariums. Thank you for sharing and I wish you the best in figuring out your new adventure.
Thank you for sharing your life with us. You seem incredibly resilient and strong. Keep moving forward! Screw 2020
Been doing this since 1969. Even built a stream aquarium when I was in the army at Knox in the eighties. Had to pay a neighbor kid to care for it when I went to the field to play tanker which was pretty much every week.
That which keeps you sane needs to be promoted. Stay strong you wonderful being. You are loved by many.
Thank you Rachel for sharing, Much Love to you and your family. May you find joy in your journey forward.
Rachel, Thank you so much for sharing. This has been such a crazy year. I have family and friends who dealt with cancer, stroke and seizures this year and now covid, fires and crazy politics. It’s a wonder we still hold on. But I just want you to know that we are sending our love and support your way. Your channel and your passion is very inspiring and we want you to feel the joy again that you give others just by being your true honest self.
You are so special! Please continue to share your love of nature and especially your love of the aquarium hobby.
You lovely lady have always been a source of inspiration to many, a teacher and a very dear friend so much so that I think of you as family.
You will always be loved and supported by legions.
You taught me with my channel to be ME, whether people like it or not I am. They may not enjoy my videos on my farm, isopods or obscure botanical interests as much as say the fish but it’s who I am.
You be you and the true fans, they people you’ve inspired for so many years will always follow.
Health and happiness always come first Rachel.
Love ya always
Love ya biggs
Blessings on your Journey of Love Rachel!! So glad to see you moving forward. I recently downsized to one tank and am considering getting rid of it too. That's life. I too wish to travel but with health issues I find it hard. Life goes on. Wishing you all the best!
It's very difficult for many of us right now and i understand your plight on many levels. I know life will work out for you given time. I very much appreciate all your efforts to help everyone out here with the fish keeping hobby. But more than that, i am thankful that you care so much about your fish and hobby and your FAMILY that you share. Thank you so very much! (glad you met someone great!). All the best your way, Rachel.
I'm glad you and Chris are still good friends, and I"m extra glad that you've found someone that is helping stoke the fires of your aquarium-keeping passion.
Thank you for sharing. Take care of yourself and your family!
I hope you find a good balance in the fish room so you can get back to the joy of it! I’m here for whatever you want to share!
Everything within us and around us impacts, inspires, influences, and touches our hobby and how we practice fishkeeping. Thank you for your transparency. It helps us know how to love, support, and encourage you. It does the same for us, too.
We love you.
James & Dana Fuqua
Your an amazing aquarist and a true mentor in the hobby. We all have nothing but love for you. Persevere and push on through to 2021. We will see you in 2021.
Positive vibes heading your way!!!
So sorry to hear of all the difficulties you've been going thru this past year. Its certainly been a hard year for all of us. Do what is best for you and your family Rachel. May the good gods bless you!
Thank you for sharing Rachel......respect your honesty and looking forward to whatever changes you need to make when you are ready!
Thank you for so openly sharing your hobby, knowledge and life. I think we can all appreciate the struggle of keeping up our hobby when major life changes happen. Keep doing you and what you need in this time. Sending much love and support
I have learned a lot from you! You inspired me to find some Chili Rasboras (which was not easy at this time) and I always remember your enthusiasm for them. Thank you for being vulnerable so publicly and I wish you a wonderful new path to recreate your new normal. We all are transforming in one way or other during this crazy time.
I also went through something similar a while back. It's wrenching. This year has been difficult for everyone. I think we're all a bit numb at this point. Be patient with yourself. Be kind to yourself. We'll be here for you. You can count on it. There are more than 100,000 people holding your hand.
I think posting this video will be understood by fishkeepers, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve assessed priorities in my life but fish have always been part of it
I'm sorry to hear how 2020 has impacted you and your passion. Still, I'm very excited to see your upcoming videos documenting exploration of natural systems, how your aquarium background affects your experience of that, and how that affects your plant and fish keeping!
I just started watching your videos recently , skipping around to different ones . I really enjoy your channel . One of the things that I enjoy about what I have seen is that #1 - you have so much information about fish and their natural habitat and behavior & #2 -you are very open about things and I appreciate that so much . Sometimes I don’t know how everyone manages their fish and their life and seem to have everything perfectly together , makes me feel like I’m always doing something wrong , but seeing your human side it makes me feel like I’m just human , you are human, we all are humans , things happen and we can only do our best with what we get especially this year . Thank you for sharing and I look forward to what you do in the future .
Thanks for sharing. Your stories always help someone. You bring a lot of inspiration to the world. That’s for sure. I am excited for the future of the channel traveling waterways. I wish I could do that more. I am in Central South Florida. I love only lived here a few years and I’m still a bit timid about jumping in freshwater here to explore. Not the same as playing in creeks up in Kentucky!
Thank you for trusting this community enough to share. I thought something life changing must be going on. Your joy had clearly been missing. I have enjoyed your kayaking / nature videos and look forward to seeing more. I expanded my fish room too quickly and am at the point where I need to reduce my workload. Tanks are coming down. It's at the point where all I am doing is maintaining and am no longer enjoying my fish. I was so glad to see the honey comb cats on your list of fish you plan to keep. I love those fish. At this point, I would be willing to drive to Pennsylvania to obtain more. You and Chris will always be connected by history and your children. I am glad you are able to maintain a cordial relationship. Stay strong, stay safe, and continue to care for yourself.
Life is full of adventures and 2020 has been choked full of them! Whatever your next adventure is I hope it is an enjoyable one for you and your family. UA-cam followers will be here for you as long as you need or want them.
I know for me, now, i can't imagine this hobby without your influence.
Please stay safe and take care of your family and your self. We will be here.
inspiring and I hope you get better.
Love your videos rachel and I hope you find healthy balance between fish room and everything else. All the best!
Sorry to hear about your year. Wishing you mental and physical strength to help you get through it.
Rachel, your face is definition of 2020. Sadness all around, but we will all bounce back and go back to basics. I am glad you are recovering from your losses. Fish keep all of us happy. That's my love as well...even tough I currently am downsized to a nano tank from 150G I had before. But smaller is better sometimes like you say...hehehe.
My heart goes out to you. Thanks for sharing with us.🤗
2020 has really been a rough one for all of us. I would encourage you to always do what’s best for you (cause nobody else can love or care for you better than you). I’ve only been following about two or three years now, but I can tell you that it didn’t take long to find you when I looked for you. Yes, I looked for you. Why? Because the legions of fish pimps out there were singing your praises. You have contributed so much to this lifestyle (that some call a hobby) & have educated so many of us. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all that you’ve done thus far & all that you continue to do. I’m a betta fishkeeper because of you. (see what i did there)? 😏
And many more can sing your praises, but I hope these words of encouragement reach you & influence you to keep moving forward. I appreciate you...
Thank you for your honesty and candor. Many of us can empathize and share your feelings. I have been trying to downsize my whole life for the past 5 years! I will watch your progress with great interest. I’m sure you will inspire me!
Take care of yourself Rachel, you are an inspiration to me and many others. 2020 has been the worst cancer, covid, surgeries and chemo, but we will persevere. Much love to you and your family.
I’m always learning from you. Thanks for being yourself.
We are like a school of fish we have to stay strong against the predators.
We support you. Anything you have to do we stand behind you. Life changes. I love the footage of you kayaking and out on the water. Having tennis elbow in both arms this summer I haven’t been able to go out. Thank you for sharing all of the ups and downs.
When I started in this hobby you were one the first set videos I watched. I loved your species spotlights, they led to me researching and keeping some of them. I think this year is one we would all like to forget. Sorry to hear the news. Glad to hear that your family are well. I think this year has a taken a toll on us all, both health wise and mentally.
I do hope you stay in the hobby and continue to share it with us. But family and health are important, so if you need to take step back, we’ll be waiting ......... take care, Crazy Tank Lady. Xxx
Thanks for the update, Rachel--I'm sorry to hear about the tumult you've been experiencing, and the impacts it's had on your profession and hobby. Personally I will be glad for any content in which you share your enormous expertise; your knowledge and style has been a real inspiration for me--the way your aquarium philosophy is centered not just on looking good and impressive, but providing fish with the conditions they need to really thrive and feel at home. That has been the single biggest factor contributing to my own design philosophy, and the tips you've shared about what you find works and doesn't work for different types of fish and plants has given me the confidence to try scapes that I would never have considered even a year ago--with the result that (non-aquarist) friends and family who see the tanks are absolutely blown away, and comment on how just how natural the fish behavior appears to be, and how they just want to sit and watch for hours. That's not something I at all imagined would come of this hobby when I got started a few years ago, and now it's one of the most rewarding parts of my life. I have you to thank for that, and I try to point people to your channel whenever possible. I've been really glad to see your videos and instagram posts exploring the natural spaces around you, and I can't wait see the beautiful scapes you create that are inspired by what you see on your excursions.
I am so glad I have inspired you in some way!
I’m so sorry that you are going through this right now. I hope that you manage to find a balance that works for you while you regroup. You inspire me and have helped my mental health in this time with the beautiful videos and images you have created in this difficult time. We will be here xxx
Thanks for sharing. We knew things were stressful, and your sharing these aspects helps other potential fish keepers to know and understand that life happens regardless. We pray for you and yous .....keep things moving and love will find a way...God bless
Yes, that all is hard to deal with. We will look forward to seeing your changes.🐟🌿👍😊
Sorry things have been tough for you. I hope you find your happiness again. You are an amazing person and one of the few people I look up to. I will always watch your videos, and thank you for making them. Fishkeeping and your channel changed my life when I was in a bad place and continues to brings me joy through this challenging year.
Thank you for sharing your story with us. You are truly an inspiration to me and I'm sure to many others out there. Stay strong, keep safe and all the happiness and joy to you my dear!
Be strong Rachel, lots of folks are pulling for you. You are definitely a hell of an aquarist because, along with your immense hard work and dedication you put a lot of love into all your aquaria.
Hi Rachel. I've just moved from South Africa to the U.K. I left most of my family and friends behind including my beloved fish friends I've done this all in the middle of covid ! I am blessed beyond words to have inspirations on this platform! Can't wait to get on my feet and start my hobby off again from scratch I'm looking forward to watching your channel to still find inspiration... Keep well. God bless you and your family...
You are the number 1 Channel I look forward to on UA-cam and not just fish. You are real, vulnerable and inspiring. Keep on truckin' you are amazing ♥️
Not sure who would advise against sharing what is going on with your life, but with all the BS vlog crap that is out there on UA-cam, I have always found you authentic. That is such a rarity, and so refreshing, not just on UA-cam, but anywhere. You have a fantastic legacy and have touched the lives of fishkeepers everywhere. Your passion was contagious, your knowledge encyclopedic. Moving on as a reaction to something is always harder. Sounds like you are reinventing yourself, keeping strong in the face of a lot of uncertainty. Time like these, the only way out is through. I am glad you are finding joy again, and the journey has just begun!
I am thankful for your onisty and being straight up with all of us on here, I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers for your family is going to be okay, I wish you the best and if I was your neighbor or living close to you, l would help you in any way I could. Love and support you always.
First time I’ve commented although have liked and watched for over a year. You’re the best out there in my opinion. Find yourself and stay strong ❤️
Do what is best for you. You have and will always be a huge inspiration to me. I can't aquascape worth a damn but I can thank you for helping me get a little better at it. Sending hugs!
Glad you found someone to share nature with. Fish, kids and a nature buddy, everything you need to keep the joy.
I’m so sorry to hear Rachel. I hope you and your family transition smoothly. Keep doing the things you love! Sending hugs.
Best of luck to you!! Well wishes that 2021 is your best year yet!!
My dad and I (both fish geeks) have watched your videos for a long time, I’m sorry to hear you’re going through all of this. Wishing you all the best - from the Isle of Wight, UK! ❤️xx
It's ok Rachel, you do you and we are all here with you. You can always get fish. Get things in order that you want. 🍉💜👍😃
The Lehigh Valley Aquarium Society is having a flea market on Sunday Sept 27th. Rachel you should come out, walk around, chit chat about fish and get your mind of off things for a bit. It's at the Weil Antique Center 2200 31st street SW, Allentown PA.
Just wanted to let you know, I bought a small school of striped kuhlis from you several years ago and all but one ( ;( ) are absolutely thriving! They bring me a lot of joy! They are always the favorite of guests when I point them out in their hiding spots :).
It’s great to share. I’m sure everyone watching supports you completely. Your awesome, just do what feels right.
My heart aches for you. I pray you find peace and joy. You are amazing. Thank you for sharing the knowledge you have. God bless.
Hi Rachel, hope you find that happy balance again in good time. Always looking forward to your awesome content. 🌱
Thank you for sharing. Do whatever you need to to stay happy and healthy. Much love and respect XXX
I'm glad you took the time to share the basics of the enormous changes, happening in your life. I noticed something was different, but now I can stop wondering if you're okay. Nice to hear you're well, overall and going to keep some skin in the game. I'm the same, only with plants. When my outside garden was struggling in the 4 year drought we were experiencing, I turned to container gardening around the house, and indoors plants instead. Getting my hands in the dirt, is something I cannot imagine NOT doing in my life. I'm thrilled to hear you're keeping the tanks you mentioned. Those are some of my favs too!
Just wondering though, would it be feasible to lease out some of the fish-room, maybe to someone who sells aquatic plants? You have already set it up, and need to downsize because of your life circumstances, but maybe someone could really use that space to set-up their own business in the aquatic hobby. They may even look after your fish, when you go on holidays. Plus, you'll make a little money back. Anyway, just an idea.
I've been following you for many years. I admire your work and I admire the great human being that you are. A big hug from Puerto Rico.
I'll always enjoy your time with us. Life took a 180 for me as well and i hope we can all continue to grow together. My fish and shrimp are a huge part of my life and I've had to leave behind some amazing tanks. Life is all about change...if it's not what we wanted then something better is on its way.
Stay strong! I’ve been following you for 5 years. Really enjoy your channel Rachel
Thanks huey!
You are an inspiration. Thank you. You stay you.
What you're saying makes a great deal of sense. Whatever you find that keeps your passion alive, will surely continue to keep me glued to your channel. It's your contagious enthusiasm and passion that makes all the difference.
Dearest Rachel. As you say, 2020 has been tough. You have my sympathies. I am pleased you have found someone to support you. I have five tanks. One I set up due to your scrap challenge. It has flourished & is home to 9 white clouds & yellow shrimp. Like you I am considering down sizing. Your tank will stay. I think the need to actually breathe nature is the compulsion.
You take of yourself & those you love. And thank you for all the content you provided. I am now a nano fish enthusiast, because big tanks afford a more natural habitat for tiny fish.
Just keep swimming 🐠💙
Hi Rachel you have been the only source of inspiration when i entered the hobby. Let me say you were the one and only reliable source of information about the species of which most might not even consider or ignore. The little nano fish world and that has been your expertise and your knowledge and expertise is unrivaled. I should says what your advise and practices of fish keeping make practical sense not only in the USA but across the world and where I am from INDIA with limited resource. I hope and I am sure nature and exploring new species is ingrained in you nature and I am sure where ever your future endeavors take you are only going to explore more and return back with even more in-depth and extensive information which I am sure you will share with us. Best regards.
Rachel, honesty is cathartic. You are a real person going through a real life. This turn is taking you somewhere new and you will undoubtedly stretch and strengthen along the way. All the insight you gain and share will continue to be entertaining.
Can’t wait to see what it will be. You are so amazing so just keep on keeping on. We will still be here.
I'm glad you shared your time and life with us..wishing you the best🤗🥰
An unexpected consequence of social media in general, and UA-cam specifically, is how much of a bond forms between us folks on this side of the screen and those in front of the camera. We truly care about you, your life, and your happiness. Find and hold on to the people, activities, and things that bring you joy. Best wishes!
I wish you well, whatever direction you take, thank you,, for what you do,, stay safe, Rachel, and all you family, friends, and fellow fish keepers, 👍🐟🐟🐟
2020 has been a total cluster-fuck for so many people, including myself. Glad to hear the split was amiacable. That will make the healing progress that much faster. Big hug!!!
wishing u the best Rachel O'Leary! 2020 sucks, u rock!
I'm sorry you are going through all of that. Me and mine separated as well and I had to do a big downsize and got rid of everything. 6 months later I finally set up another aquarium. Stay strong. We love you. ❤️